I am so grateful for Ami Desai! I had been researching South Asian makeup artists in Southern California a year before my wedding date. It was really important that I find one person who could do it all--hair, makeup for Indian skin, and "proper" dressing/pinning, as you never know what you'll get with a random "aunty" from your family.
I did a trial with her for my engagement session, loved the work, and my professional photos came out great! I did something very simple and natural, and I didn't have any idea of what I wanted, so I told her to do whatever she thought would look nice on me. I was really impressed with her knowledge and technique. She has an amazing make-up spread as well!
There is definitely a certain style I was looking for in my wedding look. I wanted to look like an Indian bride, but a lot of the Indian makeup artists out there are very heavy on the color and are into the "matchy-matchy" eyeshadows. I wanted to look more fresh and modern and wanted my make-up to complement my clothes, not compete with. I didn't even have to explain, because as soon as I started talking she finished my sentence. She knew exactly what I wanted from the get-go, and this is what I think sets her apart. Some of the other elite artists/companies out there, who I thought also suited my style (I ended up booking one of them because Ami wasn't available for one of my events) were really overpriced and/or had terrible customer service due to their no shortage of clientele.
Like some of the other reviewers mention, Ami is very quick in responding to email/following up with you, being up front about costs, etc. She listens to you, and really makes every effort to accommodate her client's needs. Her price is competitive with other services out there, but you get exactly what you pay for--quality work and quality service.
She had the added task of trying to conceal my puffy crying eyes on the day of (as I had some drama earlier in the day), but she did a great job and helped me ice my under eyes while she was setting my hair. Additionally, my community has a unique dupatta pinning style and with some pictures and the guidance of one of my friends, she was able to get it right on the first try. She also has some cool tricks to make the dupatta stay on your head!
I highly recommend Makeup By Ami and follow her make-up blog as well! She really knows her stuff--you can tell from her own flawless style and make-up job! You won't be disappointed at all! Take it from me--a picky, perfectionist bride. read more
